U.S. patent application number 10/040628 was filed with the patent office on 2002-07-25 for system and method for management of various works in hospitals.
Invention is credited to Oikawa, Daizo, Waku, Toshiya.
Application Number | 20020099571 10/040628 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 18871445 |
Filed Date | 2002-07-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020099571 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Waku, Toshiya ; et
al. |
July 25, 2002 |
System and method for management of various works in hospitals
Abstract
There is disclosed a medical management system which generally
manages an operation situation of each apparatus by a mode called a
the, and manages a flow of all medical works executed by the system
in executing the medical work relating to a patient in the system
as an object.
Inventors: |
Waku, Toshiya; (Otawara-shi,
JP) ; Oikawa, Daizo; (Otawara-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OBLON SPIVAK MCCLELLAND MAIER & NEUSTADT PC
FOURTH FLOOR
1755 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY
ARLINGTON
VA
22202
US
|
Family ID: |
18871445 |
Appl. No.: |
10/040628 |
Filed: |
January 9, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G16H 40/20 20180101;
G16H 30/40 20180101; G16H 10/60 20180101; G16H 40/67 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/2 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 10, 2001 |
JP |
2001-003039 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system to be connected via a network to a plurality of medical
systems installed in a medical institution, configured to manage
various works performed at the medical systems, said system
comprising: a memory which stores information items relating to
work processes performed in the medical systems, each item
representing the sequence and conditions of one work process
relating to one patient or one medical examination; an
information-updating processor which updates the information item
stored in the memory to one that represents the present state of
the work process; and a transmitter which transmits display
information to the medical systems through the network, the display
information causing the medical system to display the information
items updated on the present state of each of the work processes in
such a display mode as to represent the present state of each of
the work process relating to one patient or one medical
examination.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein each medical system
comprises: a display device which displays states of the work
processes being performed at any medical systems; a
process-selecting device which is operated to select each of work
processes displayed by said display device; and a processor that
performs the work process selected by operating said
process-selecting device.
3. The system according to claim 2, which further comprises: an
input device which is operated to input data for updating the
sequences of the work processes displayed by the display device,
and in which said information-updating processor updates the
information items stored in said memory in accordance with the data
input from said input device.
4. The system according to claim 2, wherein said display device
controls the number of steps of each work process which is
displayed and constitutes each of the information items on the
basis of a preset condition.
5. A system for managing various works in a medical institution,
which comprises a plurality of medical devices or terminal devices
which are connected to a network and a host computer which
controls, via the network, works performed by using the medical
devices or terminal devices, said host computer comprising: a
memory which stores information representing sequential steps of at
least one process defining a prescribed work relating to medical
service and conditions in which the medical devices or terminal
devices are to perform the prescribed work; an
information-selecting device which selects and reads work
information about a work performed on a patient, from said memory
in accordance with diagnostic data input; a processor which
controls, in accordance with the selected work information, the
sequence of a process, which is defined by the work information
about the work performed on the patient; a controller which
controls the medical devices or terminal devices as said processor
controls the sequence of a process; and a transmitter which
transmits the work information selected by said
information-selecting device and representing the state of the work
being performed, to the medical devices or terminal devices,
wherein said medical devices or terminal devices comprise display
devices, respectively, which display the work information at the
same time.
6. The system according to claim 5, wherein each of said medical
devices or terminal devices further comprises an input device which
is operated to input alteration information configured to update
the work information displayed by said display device; said host
computer further comprises a receiver which receives the alteration
information from said input device, through the network; and said
processor updates the work information in accordance with the
alteration information received by said receiver.
7. The system according to claim 5, wherein said display device
controls the number of steps of each work process which is
displayed and constitutes each of the information items on the
basis of a preset condition for each of the medical devices or
terminal devices.
8. A system for managing various works in a medical institution,
which comprises a plurality of medical devices or terminal devices
which are connected to a network and a host computer which
controls, via the network, works performed by using the medical
devices or terminal devices, said host computer comprising: a
memory which stores information representing the sequential steps
of at least one process defining a prescribed work relating to
medical service and the conditions in which the medical devices or
terminal devices are able to perform the prescribed work; an
information-selecting device which selects and reads work
information about a work performed on a patient, from the memory in
accordance with diagnostic data input; an information-updating
processor which updates the work information to one representing
the work now being performed in each of the medical device or
terminal devices, in response to information that represents the
present state of each medical device or terminal device and is
transmitted from each medical device or terminal device connected
to the network; and a transmitter which transmits the work
information updated by said information-updating processor to said
medical devices or terminal devices, and each of said medical
devices and terminal devices comprising: a display device which
displays the sequence of the work process represented by the work
information selected by said information-selecting device and
transmitted from said transmitter; a controller which controls a
process defined by the work information; and a transmitter which
transmits information representing a state of the work being
performed on the patient, to said host computer through the
network.
9. The system according to claim 8, wherein each of said medical
devices and terminal devices further comprises an input device
which is operated to input data for updating the sequences of the
work process displayed by the display device, and in which the
information-updating processor updates the sequence of the work
process in accordance with the data input by said input device.
10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the number of steps of
each work process, which is displayed by said display device, is
controlled by a condition preset for each of said medical devices
or terminal devices.
11. A method of managing various works performed at medical systems
installed in a medical institution, by using a system connected to
the medical systems via a network, said method comprising: updating
information items relating to the work processes performed in the
medical systems, each of the information items corresponding to one
patient or one medical inspection and representing the sequence and
conditions of the work process; and transmitting display
information to the medical systems through the network, the display
information causing the medical system to display the information
items updated on the present state of each of the work processes in
such a display mode as to represent the present state of each of
the work process relating to one patient or one medical
examination.
12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising:
displaying the state of the work process being performed at any
medical system that have received the display information, and
performing a corresponding process in response to selection
indication to each of the displayed work processes.
13. The method according to claim 11, wherein the information item
representing the sequence of the work process is updated when the
sequence is changed,.
14. The method, wherein the number of steps of each work process,
which is displayed, is controlled by a prescribed condition.
15. A method of managing various works performed by a plurality of
medical devices or terminal devices connected to a network, said
method comprising: changing the sequence of a work process which is
defined by work information relating to one patient or one medical
inspection, in accordance with work information which includes an
information item representing the sequential steps of at least one
process defining a prescribed work relating to medical service and
an information item representing the conditions in which the
medical devices or terminal devices are able to perform the
prescribed work; controlling the medical devices or terminal
devices in accordance with the sequence of a work process, thus
changed; and displaying, at each of the medical devices or terminal
devices, the work information which represents the state of the
work process being performed.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the information item
representing the sequence of the work process is updated when the
sequence is changed,
17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the number of steps
of each work process, which is displayed, is controlled by a
prescribed condition.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
priority from the prior Japanese Patent Application No. 2001-3039,
filed Jan. 10, 2001, the entire contents of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a work management system
and method by utilizing a network to accomplish overall management
of the operations performed by apparatuses in medical works, such
as image diagnostic apparatuses utilizing X-ray, X-ray CT, magnetic
resonance, nuclear medicine, and ultrasonics, as well as medical
image processing apparatuses, medical workstations, and medical
information apparatuses.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] In recent years, innovations in medical techniques have
closely followed those of the information technology field. For
example, new diagnostic information is provided, more delicate
surgery is made possible, the quality of surgery, as a service, is
enhanced, the efficiency of the various works medical work
performed in a medical institution including a medical work and
medical office work are enhanced, and many other allied fields are
influenced in this manner.
[0006] Concretely, examples of techniques for providing new
diagnostic information and facilitating detailed medical procedures
include various image diagnostic apparatus (X-ray diagnostic
apparatus, X-ray CT apparatus, magnetic resonance diagnostic
apparatus, nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic
diagnostic apparatus), ultrasonic treatment apparatuses, and the
like.
[0007] Moreover, examples of techniques for enhancing the
efficiency of the business side of the medical industries include a
system for general information management. Typical examples thereof
include a hospital information system (hereinafter referred to as
"HIS"), for generally managing business information in a hospital,
a radiology information system (hereinafter referred to as "RIS")
for generally managing medical information in a radiation section,
and the like.
[0008] Furthermore, the enhancement of efficiency of the medical
procedures is realized by introducing information techniques such
as in-hospital LANs, and medical workstations.
[0009] However, in recent years, the influence on medical fields
has caused the following problems.
[0010] Firstly, many information apparatuses which have been of a
great variety are introduced. In general, systems of various makers
have been introduced. However, even when the system is constituted
of products from the same maker, operability of the respective
apparatuses is not unified in many cases. Therefore, the operation
of the apparatus requires much time, and there is a risk of
malfunction. There is also the problem that an operation method
learning time is long at a time of introduction of a new apparatus
or addition of a new member. Particularly, when users such as a
doctor and engineer learn operation methods of a great variety of
apparatuses, imposed burdens can be said to be large.
[0011] Secondly, the techniques represented by HIS and RIS are
limited by the respective apparatuses or a processing in one
apparatus. Therefore, the technique does not enable total
management in a network environment inside and outside the hospital
and section and can not provide meaning of automation, power
saving, overall system awareness or the like on a more global
level. Particularly in a conventional technique, there is no
structure for transferring operations between apparatuses, or for
enabling parallel processing. Therefore, it is unavoidable that the
globalization of the system according to only the conventional
technique causes a problem of generation of a double operation in
the individual apparatuses or the like.
[0012] The present invention has been developed in consideration of
the aforementioned circumstances, and an object thereof is to
provide a medical work management system which can easily be
operated by a user, and which can quickly provide information so as
to appropriately and easily grasp a stream of various works
performed in a global medical system using medical work not only a
single apparatus but also a plurality of apparatuses, and a medical
work management method.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] To achieve this object, according to an aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a system to be connected via a
network to a plurality of medical systems installed in a medical
institution, configured to manage various works performed at the
medical systems, the system comprising: a memory which stores
information items relating to work processes performed in the
medical systems, each item representing the sequence and conditions
of one work process relating to one patient or one medical
examination; an information-updating processor which updates the
information item stored in the memory to one that represents the
present state of the work process; and a transmitter which
transmits display information to the medical systems through the
network, the display information causing the medical system to
display the information items updated on the present state of each
of the work processes in such a display mode as to represent the
present state of each of the work process relating to one patient
or one medical examination.
[0014] According to this configuration, a medical work management
system which can easily be operated by a user and which can quickly
provide information so as to appropriately and easily grasp a flow
of a medical work in a global system involving a plurality of
apparatuses can be realized.
[0015] Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be
obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be
realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and
combinations particularly pointed out hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of
the invention, and together with the general description given
above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below,
serve to explain the principles of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 1 is a block constitution diagram of a stream control
module of a whole control type.
[0018] FIGS. 2, 3 show block constitution diagrams of the stream
control module of a processing dispersion type.
[0019] FIG. 4 shows an example of a console screen in which a
stream list defining a flow of a medical work of a CT examination
of a radiation section is displayed.
[0020] FIG. 5 shows another example of the console screen in which
the stream list defining the stream of the medical work of a CT
examination of the radiation section is displayed.
[0021] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a modification example of the
present medical work management system.
[0022] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example in which a medical
work management system of the present invention is applied to the
radiation section.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which the present
medical work management system is applied to the radiation
section.
[0024] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example in which the present
medical work management system is applied to the radiation
section.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which the present
medical work management system is applied to the radiation
section.
[0026] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example in which the present
medical work management system is applied to the radiation
section.
[0027] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a system example in which one
stream control module is installed in a hospital and a stream of
the hospital as a whole is controlled.
[0028] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a system example of a
constitution in which a sub module for managing a section is
installed.
[0029] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example in which a sub
stream is controlled in a CT apparatus and a process is controlled
in a workstation.
[0030] FIG. 15 schematically shows a flow of an outpatient and data
in the hospital when the present medical work management system is
applied in the hospital and the medical work is performed in
accordance with a stream.
[0031] FIG. 16 shows an example in which the present medical work
management system is applied to a plurality of hospitals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0032] An embodiment of the present invention will be described
with reference to the drawings. Additionally, in the following
description, elements having substantially the same function and
constitution are denoted with the same reference numerals to avoid
repetition, and a description is given only when necessary.
[0033] One important aspect of a medical work management system
according to the present embodiment lies in the idea that the
operational status of each apparatus is generally managed by a mode
called a "stream" in order to execute a medical work relating to a
patient in a system as an object, and thereby the flow of all
medical works executed in the system is managed.
[0034] (Stream)
[0035] The stream has been developed to grasp/manage a flow of the
various works of a whole medical network system as an object based
on an operation of a computer or a medical apparatus having a
computer function, and is defined by arranging a predetermined work
unit called a "process" in a predetermined order (e.g., an order of
implementation ). The stream defines the flow of the works in a
section or a hospital as a management object, or between the
hospitals (hereinafter, a work performed in a medical institution
is referred to as a medical work). Any means, such as a format or
script, can be used, but can be applied not only to the single
apparatus but to a plurality of apparatuses. Assuming that the
stream is applied to a network system constituted of a network of
one medical examination section and apparatuses connected to the
network, the stream is defined by a plurality of work units planned
to be implemented, such as patient registration, scanning,
reconstruction, image processing, filming, and archiving.
Additionally, when one medical work is to be implemented, the
stream is sometimes constituted by a single process. Moreover, a
process is a predetermined work unit, and the content does not have
to indicate a single work. For example, when all composite
operations, such as reconstruction, image processing, filming, and
archiving are performed, the process of "diagnostic image
generation" can be defined.
[0036] Various systems for the management of the medical work as an
object by the stream are considered. Examples include a system for
executing medical works relating to a plurality of patients in
parallel, in a single apparatus; a global system which uses the
network and a plurality of apparatuses inside and outside the
hospital, and the like. The application to various systems will be
described later in respective embodiments.
[0037] In the present medical work management system, the
scheduling of medical works, operation of connected apparatuses,
and the like are one-dimensionally managed. This is realized by a
stream control module described hereinafter.
[0038] (Stream Control Module)
[0039] For management of medical works using the stream, when the
stream control module for managing the stream is disposed, any
apparatus based on an engineering workstation, including an
electronic calculator and personal computer can be managed.
[0040] As described later in the respective embodiments, the stream
control module utilizes the network to perform information
management relating to a medical work system established in a
predetermined region, such as a plurality of hospitals, inside the
hospital, and examination section. Examples of installation of a
stream control module in the system are a "whole control" type and
a "dispersion" type.
[0041] The whole control type is a mode in which general
information management of the medical work system for each
predetermined level unit, such as a hospital, examination section,
or diagnostic apparatus is performed. In this mode, shared
information to be managed is concentrated on an upper-level control
module. The whole control type can be applied, for example, to a
system described later and shown in FIG. 13. That is, in the stream
of the whole hospital, the image diagnostic examination, as a sub
stream of a radiation section in the whole stream, is controlled
not by a stream server of the whole hospital, but by a stream
server for controlling the stream in the radiation section, in the
example. Moreover, when individual apparatuses perform a plurality
of processes, sub stream modules are installed in the apparatuses,
and in the example a nested stream can be constituted, such as a
whole hospital stream, radiation section stream, and CT apparatus
stream.
[0042] On the other hand, in the dispersion type, only specific
information (e.g., control, display, and operation of a progress
state of the process) is managed in a medical work system scale,
and other information (e.g., control, display, and operation of the
process for each section) is managed by the individual apparatuses.
In this mode, each of the terminals controls the execution of the
processes in the inside of self-equipment and transmits information
of starting or completing a process to the stream server managing
the whole system. The stream server controls the stream of the
whole system, reflecting the information of starting or completing
the process and transmits the latest stream information to each of
the terminals.
[0043] These stream control modules may be incorporated in the
existing apparatus, or may be installed as an independent
exclusive-use server on the system. The constitution is mainly
applied to a system in which the network is utilized to manage the
operations of a plurality of apparatuses. In this case, the module
is sometimes referred to as a stream control server. Respective
embodiments described later include: an example in which an
independent stream control module (stream control server) is
installed and the stream of the whole hospital is controlled; an
example in which a sub module for managing the inside of the
section is installed and the stream is controlled in the section;
an example in which a global stream control module is installed in
one hospital, a local stream control module is installed in another
hospital, and template management or stream management is performed
in a transverse manner among a plurality of hospitals; and the
like.
[0044] Additionally, whether the stream control function is
incorporated in the existing apparatus or an exclusive-use server
is disposed is decided according to the scale and range of the
apparatus used, number of examinations, processing ability of the
apparatus, cost, and the like.
[0045] (Constitution of a Stream Control Module)
[0046] First, a block constitution of the stream control module
disposed in a system according to the present embodiment will first
be described with reference to FIG. 1.
[0047] FIG. 1 is a block constitution diagram of a stream control
module 20 of the whole control type.
[0048] The stream control module 20 includes a stream template
holder 200, stream execution portion 201, stream/stream list holder
202, state monitor/stream operation receiver 203, state display
204, ID security information holder 205, display information holder
206, and connected apparatus information holder 207.
[0049] The stream template holder 200 stores a stream template
relating to all the apparatuses controlled by the stream control
module 20 in response to a request from the apparatus. Here, the
stream template is the stream formed in a template (fixed format)
for each of types (such as a case, diagnostic site, operator,
patient, image reader or observer, examination apparatus, image
reader apparatus or image apparatus, and medical association).
[0050] Moreover, the stream template holder 200 holds the template
for each process in the stream template.
[0051] Here, the template for each process will be described. The
process indicates a processing unit such as scanning, image
processing, and filming in an example of CT examination. The stream
defines a flow and connection of these processing units. In each
process, in scanning, for example, the present company has
automated scanning and template called an expert plan. The scanning
plate can be stored/selected as the template in accordance with a
body type and case of the patient. In the filming, auto filming is
prepared as the template for each process. In the image processing,
a 3D template is prepared for each process in the conventional
technique. The stream of the present invention can not only define
the flow of the process but also store the process template for use
in each process and parameters for use in the template. Therefore,
according to the stream prepared in an appropriate content, the
examination can be performed with total automation or semi
automation (merely by pressing the "OK button" and "next button" at
a division of the processing). For example, in the stream of a
simple head CT examination, an adult simple head scan template is
set in a scanning/reconstruction process, a coronal MPR batch
processing template is set in the image processing process, and a
template of two 5.times.4 frames is set in the filming process.
[0052] The stream execution portion 201 is a controller for
automatically executing the selected stream, and mainly executes a
processing requiring no dialogue operation in the stream to be
executed. Moreover, to execute a plurality of streams in parallel,
the stream execution portion 201 exclusively allots the process
into an apparatus (hereinafter referred to as an "exclusive
processing") based on the information stored in the connected
apparatus information holder 207 and time information, and executes
the process so that the predetermined process does not interfere
with another process in the predetermined apparatus.
[0053] The stream execution portion 203 comprises an application
execution portion and a data acquisition portion. The application
execution portion executes applications corresponding to the
various processes. The data acquisition portion acquires data from
each of the terminals via a network.
[0054] The stream/stream list holder 202 is a storage for storing
the stream of all the apparatuses controlled by the stream control
module 20. Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, the stream list
is constituted by arranging the streams for the respective patients
in parallel, in a predetermined order (in an order of reception in
FIG. 4), so that the general progress situation of the medical work
is managed.
[0055] The state monitor/stream operation receiver 203 receives
information relating to the operation, such as an operation request
with respect to the stream performed in all the apparatuses
controlled by the module 20, and sends the information to
associated functional blocks (e.g., respective constituting
elements of the module 20). Moreover, the state monitor/stream
operation receiver 203 obtains state information from an apparatus
which does not automatically transmit updated information to the
module 20 at a predetermined timing.
[0056] The state display 204 transmits latest information of the
state of the stream changed by reflecting the operation request
received by the state monitor/stream operation receiver 203 by the
stream execution portion 201 to all the apparatuses controlled by
the module 20.
[0057] The ID security information holder 205 stores information
for performing restrictions on operation/display for a purpose of
security by an individual or group unit with respect to all the
apparatuses controlled by the module 20. Moreover, the ID security
information holder 205 newly stores the transmitted content when
there is a transmission for registration, change, deletion, and the
like associated with the security from the respective apparatuses
on the system.
[0058] The stream execution portion 201 specifies the information
on the stream for each system based on the information in the ID
security information holder 205. For example, when there is a
stream preparation request (described later) from the predetermined
apparatus on the system developed in the predetermined section, the
stream execution portion 201 executes ID check based on the
information in the ID security information holder 205, and selects
and transmits the information for the predetermined system and
apparatus.
[0059] Additionally, the module 20 regards the security as
important according to the constitution, so that information
relating to a plurality of one-dimensionally managed apparatuses,
or information relating to a plurality of groups is prevented from
leaking outside the system as the object.
[0060] The display information holder 206 stores a display content
for each individual, group, or apparatus. The information stored in
the display information holder 206 is used in filter display of the
stream list as described later. Moreover, when each apparatus
transmits a request for registration, change, or deletion in a
display method, the display information holder 206 newly stores the
transmitted content.
[0061] The connected apparatus information holder 207 stores
information inherent to all the apparatuses controlled by the
module 20. To control various connected apparatuses in accordance
with the stream, or perform parallel processing of the stream, the
stream execution portion 201 manages each stream and controls the
connected apparatus based on the information stored in the
connected apparatus information holder 207 so that redundancy is
not generated among the streams.
[0062] FIG. 2 is a block constitution diagram of a stream control
module 20 of the dispersion type. As shown in FIG. 2, stream
control module 20A is installed in each of the terminals and
executes individual processes in the inside of each of the
terminals. The function of each composition is as follows.
[0063] The stream template holder 210 holds the template for each
process in the stream template (process template).
[0064] The process execution portion 211 is a controller for
automatically executing the selected process, and mainly executes a
processing requiring no dialogue operation in the process to be
executed. Moreover, to execute a plurality of processes in
parallel, the process execution portion 211 exclusively allots the
process into apparatus based on the information stored in the
connected apparatus information holder 207 and time information,
and executes the process so that the predetermined process does not
interfere with another process in the predetermined apparatus.
[0065] The process/process list holder 212 is a storage for storing
the processes of all the apparatuses controlled by the stream
control module 20A. Here, for example, the process list is
constituted by arranging the process for the respective patients in
parallel in a predetermined order, so that the general progress
situation of the medical work is managed.
[0066] The state monitor/stream operation receiver 203 receives
information relating to the operation, such as an operation request
with respect to the stream performed in all the apparatuses
controlled by the module 20A, and sends the information to
associated functional blocks (e.g., respective constituting
elements of the module 20A). Moreover, the state monitor/stream
operation receiver 203 obtains state information from an apparatus
which does not automatically transmit updated information to the
module 20B at a predetermined timing.
[0067] The state display 204 transmits latest information of the
state of the stream changed by reflecting the operation request
received by the state monitor/stream operation receiver 203 to all
the apparatuses controlled by the module 20.
[0068] The display information holder 206 stores the display
content for each individual, group, or apparatus. The information
stored in the display information holder 206 is used in filter
display of the stream list as described later.
[0069] The connected apparatus information holder 207 stores
information inherent to all the apparatuses controlled by the
module 20. To control various connected apparatuses in accordance
with the stream, or perform parallel processing of the process, the
stream execution portion 201 manages each process and controls the
connected apparatus based on the information stored in the
connected apparatus information holder 207 so that redundancy is
not generated among the processes.
[0070] Note that, the stream control module 20B is located on a
higher-level than the control module 20A and manages the stream of
the system scale. The configuration of the stream control module
20B is substantially the same as the control module 20, as shown in
FIG. 1. The stream control module 20B receives information with
respect to the starting or completing of the process or the like
form the control module 20A installed in each of the terminal and
updates the stream according to the information.
[0071] (Function of Stream Control Module)
[0072] Each of the stream control modules 20, 20A, and 20B
typically have two functions. One is a stream template management
function, and the other is a stream execution management function.
Hereinafter, the stream control module 20 is explained as an
example.
[0073] The stream template management function is a function for
performing management of new preparation, referring, changing, and
duplication of the stream template. Here, for the new preparation
of the stream template, the stream of each predetermined item (such
as the case, site, operator, patient type, image reader,
examination apparatus, and image reader apparatus) is newly formed
in the template. The newly prepared stream template is
registered/stored, and can be read from the terminal on the network
at an arbitrary timing. Stream referring (selective reading) is a
processing for selecting the template for use, when stream
execution is started. Stream changing is a processing for changing
the content of the selectively read template at an arbitrary
timing. New preparation, referring, changing, and duplication of
the stream template can be executed from any apparatus on the
network at any time.
[0074] The stream template management function is executed mainly
by the state monitor/stream operation receiver 203, stream template
holder 200, and stream execution portion 201 of the stream control
module 20. That is, the state monitor/stream operation receiver 203
receives the stream template newly prepared or changed by the
apparatus on the network, and stores the template in the stream
template holder 200. Moreover, to refer to the stream, the stream
execution portion 201 reads the stream template holder 200 in the
stream control module 20, and the state monitor/stream operation
receiver 203 transmits the stream to the apparatus having
transmitted the request on the network.
[0075] Additionally, storage of the stream or the stream template
is not limited to the stream template holder 200 in the module 20,
and may also be stored in a local apparatus, associated system
apparatus, removable media, and server (image server, HIS/RIS
server, WWW server, and the like). That is, the object can be
achieved in a constitution in which the stream or the template can
be shared, duplicated, or sold in the hospital or among the
hospitals.
[0076] Additionally, the stream or the stream template in the
stream template holder 200 can be accessed from anywhere on the
network, in principle. However, the module 20 can set access
rights, from the viewpoint of security. This is realized by the ID
security information holder 205.
[0077] Moreover, the changed/modified stream template can spread
changed/modified content over the whole system. This is achieved by
latest transmission to each connected apparatus by the state
display 204. Furthermore, the stream or the stream template can be
shared and the processing can be transferred among the apparatuses
connected via the network. This is possible because the module 20
one-dimensionally manages the information relating to the medical
work. Additionally, when the new processing is transferred, it is
preferable that the state just before receiving the transferred
processing can be reproduced in the apparatus having the
transferred processing.
[0078] On the other hand, in stream execution management, the
operation of each apparatus on the network is managed/controlled in
accordance with the stream. This function concretely realizes the
following processing.
[0079] (1 ) Providing Information relating to the Progress
Situation of a Stream
[0080] In order to easily confirm a progress degree of the stream
in each apparatus connected to the network, information by which
the progress situation of the stream can be judged. For example,
when the plurality of apparatuses as the objects are controlled by
the stream, the information indicating the apparatus (place), time
(time information), and progress degree of the medical work
(progress situation) is provided. The information is realized, when
the state display 204 transmits the latest information of the
medical work in accordance with the stream to each apparatus on the
network. In each apparatus, for example, as shown in FIG. 4 or 5,
the stream is displayed in a list in a mode in which the progress
situation can be judged (e.g., in a display in which respective
examined, executing, and reserved (waiting for the examination)
states can easily be seen).
[0081] FIG. 4 shows an example of a console screen in which the
stream list defining the flow of the medical work of CT examination
of the radiation section is displayed. There are displayed buttons
for newly registering an examination stream, registering the stream
as the template, reading the template, clearing the stream,
clearing all, and returning to the start (canceling the operation),
and the operation is performed with respect to the template.
[0082] Moreover, the stream can be listed or operated with an
examination stream list. Here, the stream for one day in the CT
apparatus is displayed. The screen is scrolled with a right-side
scroll bar so that all the examinations can be seen.
[0083] In the list display, examined (normal end, abnormal end),
examining, and examination reserved states can be confirmed. Here,
the examined state is displayed in green, the examining state is
displayed in yellow, and the examination reserved state is
displayed in white. The state is displayed by classification by
color in this manner. Furthermore, in the stream being examined,
the color is also classified for each process, the executed process
is displayed in green, the process being executed is displayed in
red, and the non-executed process is displayed in white.
[0084] In a patient information input process, the obtained
information is displayed, and further, additional information can
be inputted. In this example of the stream, the patient information
input, scanning, reconstruction, image processing, filming,
archiving, and transfer processes are performed in order. To shift
to the next scanning process from the patient information input,
the "next button" (not shown in FIG. 4) or "scan" process button of
the stream list is depressed.
[0085] The content of the stream differs with the hospital, patient
type, site, case, operator, emergency case, and the like. Even in
such a complicated examination procedure, the operator simply
confirms the stream in the stream list, designates the stream, or
designates "next".
[0086] Moreover, in the example of FIG. 4, the progress situation
of each process can be displayed.
[0087] The state of the CT apparatus and situation of the connected
apparatus are displayed in the stream list of FIG. 4. Here, from a
left side, an OLP state of an X-ray tube, CT scanner base,
situation of a bed, hard disk capacity, removable media capacity,
hard disk of the server, or a removable media capacity, and a
background processing such as a filming processing, archiving
processing, and transfer processing are displayed. When a
background process status button is depressed, detailed display of
the individual background processings, and a cancel processing can
be performed. A dialogue appears.
[0088] In various situations display, patient/examination
information, and a detailed panel of each process are displayed. In
the patient/examination information display, information obtained
from the HIS/RIS is displayed, and information is also manually
inputted. Moreover, to prevent erroneous input, the automatically
obtained information, and information inputted in the apparatus can
be displayed by distinguishing font and color.
[0089] Input, selected item, processing result, and the like in
each process are displayed in each process display area. FIG. 4
shows a scan process example in which a scan template selection
screen is displayed. The template defined beforehand when the
stream is defined is automatically displayed, and can be changed at
a time of starting/executing the process.
[0090] FIG. 5 shows another display example of the stream list.
[0091] This is an example in which display of the examinations
scheduled for the CT apparatus in one day, and examination stream
management are simultaneously performed. Usually, an examination
time schedule table is browsed and checked by an HIS/RIS terminal
or paper. However, in this display form, it is unnecessary to
confirm the schedule by the HIS/RIS terminal and paper.
[0092] As described with reference to FIG. 4, the states such as
the examined, examining, and examination reserved states can be
distinguished using colors. In the example, only the processes of
scan, reconstruction, image processing, and image transfer in the
CT apparatus are displayed. An examination scheduled time,
requested section, doctor responsible, apparatus name, and operator
are also set for displaying. This list can be displayed not only in
the HIS/RIS but also in the CT apparatus and workstation.
Additionally, in addition to the examination scheduled time, times
such as an examination end time and required examination time can
also be displayed.
[0093] Additionally, for example, the screen in which the stream
list is displayed can have the following display modes.
[0094] (i) An operating person or a person to operate is inputted
or displayed.
[0095] (ii) An unperformed processing, wait state of resource,
generation of a problem, and the like are displayed.
[0096] (iii) A normal end or an abnormal end can be distinguished
in the display.
[0097] (iv) The state/situation associated with the stream, such as
the state of the local apparatus or the network apparatus is
displayed.
[0098] (v) An order of priority is designated and displayed by a
stream or process unit.
[0099] (vi) The stream distinguished or filtered for each operator,
apparatus, process, image reader, examination room, and the like is
displayed with customization (refer to (2) "Display Filter"
described later).
[0100] (vii) A prescription content and parameter of the process
are display beforehand, before the process is executed.
[0101] (viii) The display of the situation of the processing
associated with the stream: the progress state of the processing
such as a foreground processing and background processing is
displayed.
[0102] (ix) A wait state of OLP, base position, angle, HDD
capacity, removable media capacity, and the like are displayed.
[0103] Moreover, in the present system, the directions for
performing the various processes managed by the stream manages can
be inputted from the terminal screen displaying the stream
list.
[0104] That is, with the stream display and operation means of the
present system, a desired operation can be performed only by
selecting the desired processing from the stream (examination)
list. In an example of FIG. 6, when a scan processing is performed
for a patient D on the CT apparatus, an image of a patient A of
three examinations before is displayed. In this case, when an image
display process button on the stream of the patient A is depressed,
input signal is received by the state monitor/stream operation
receiver 203 in the module. The stream execution portion 201
readouts the image stored in the DB on the network and transfers
the image to the terminal. The terminal displays the image of the
patient A on the basis of the received imaging data. Therefore,
when an image display process button on the stream of the patient A
is just depressed, the application changes to an image display
application, and the image of the patient A is automatically loaded
in the application.
[0105] Moreover, when a scan process button of a patient D is
depressed, the process can be returned to the original process
being executed. Even when another processing is performed in a
critical processing, such as a scan processing, the interrupt
processing can be performed with a simple operation.
[0106] In diagnostic imaging apparatus, image processing systems,
etc., when the image which is not currently being processing and
which it is not, for example, the image acquired at an previous
examination, was displayed and processed, in the conventional
technique, execution application was started and the step of
choosing the desired image from the image list after that was
stepped on. On the other hand, according to the above-mentioned
configuration, since the desired work can be executed only by
choosing desired processing from the stream (examination), a
user-friendly system which enables work to be carried out
efficiently is provided.
[0107] (2) Display Filter
[0108] The stream list may define a broad-range flow of the medical
work. In this case, for example, in a certain section, it is
unnecessary to display the process of another section in many
cases. In consideration of this, the present system has a display
filter function, making it possible to control the display content
for each predetermined division. Additionally, this display filter
function is realized by selecting the information to be transmitted
to each apparatus by the state display 204 in accordance with the
content of the display information holder 206.
[0109] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a function for
limiting the display by a display filter, and shows display
information in the predetermined division held by the display
information holder 206. As shown in FIG. 7, when the display filter
is changed for the whole section, a plurality of CT apparatuses,
the whole hospital, or a plurality of hospitals, the list can be
browsed and operated by various divisions. Moreover, when a new
division and the corresponding display item are defined, the
display content can be edited for each apparatus. Additionally,
newly defined, changed, or updated display information is stored in
the display information holder 206.
[0110] The following are examples of divisions of the display
information:
[0111] (i) Requested section, hospital
[0112] (ii) Patient (including a previous medical examination
result)
[0113] (iii) Time, day
[0114] (iv) Doctor responsible
[0115] (v) Examination room, ward
[0116] (vi) Image reader doctor
[0117] (3) Waiting for Request to Module 20 and State
Monitoring
[0118] Since the operation procedure over a composite area is
generally controlled, the module 20 monitors the states of all the
apparatuses in the system. Concretely, the state monitor/stream
operation receiver 203 manages generated event information in a
centralized manner. When the receiver 203 receives an event
generated in a predetermined apparatus, the stream execution
portion 201 rewrites (changes) the stream with the event reflected
therein. The state display 204 transmits the changed content to
each apparatus on the network.
[0119] (4) Stream Operation
[0120] In each apparatus on the network, the stream and stream list
are not only displayed but also operated. Inputting in each
apparatus on the network in order to execute the content of the
existing stream is called a stream operation. For example, when the
stream or the process on the screen is clicked, the corresponding
processing is performed. For the stream list, each item can be
manually inputted at a CT console, HIS/RIS terminal, image
processing workstation, image reading workstation, and the like.
Alternatively, patient information, examination order, past
information, and the like can be collectively or individually
obtained from a hospital/section/patient information system, such
as HIS/RIS. Additionally, each of the following operations can be
carried out in each apparatus on the network. Moreover, in each
apparatus, the operation executed with respect to the stream is
received by the receiver 203 as described in the above (2), and
reflected in the existing stream or the stream list.
[0121] (i) Re-performing or returning can be instructed or executed
with respect to the ended stream or process.
[0122] (ii) The processing such as image browsing can be performed
in parallel without influencing the processing of the stream or the
process.
[0123] (iii) An approval waiting command can be disposed in a
division of the stream or the process.
[0124] (iv) Since the stream or the process is selected, it is
unnecessary to use a file list.
[0125] (v) An order of the stream or the process is changed. For
example, temporary stop, stop, and pass can be instructed with
respect to the stream or the process.
[0126] (vi) The stream is deleted or added.
[0127] (vii) An operation other than the defined operation can be
performed in an interrupt manner during execution of the
stream.
[0128] (viii) An interrupt processing is performed, and after end
of the processing the interrupted state easily returns to the
original state.
[0129] (ix) A plurality of streams can be simultaneously executed
in individual apparatuses or in the whole system.
Example 1
[0130] A first embodiment of medical work management by the
aforementioned system will be described.
[0131] First, the embodiment of the medical work management in
accordance with the stream of a single section, such as the
radiation section, will be described.
[0132] FIGS. 8 to 11 are diagrams showing examples in which the
present medical work management system is applied to the radiation
section. Additionally, the system shown in FIG. 9 and 11 covers the
patient/ examination information of the whole radiation section in
RIS. In the RIS, the examination stream is prepared, and a patient
information input process is performed. Moreover, the system shown
in FIG. 8 is constituted by mounting the stream control module 20
in CT1, and the system shown in FIG. 10 is constituted by disposing
the stream control module 20 as the stream control server.
[0133] Moreover, the system may be constituted by disposing one
stream control module in the hospital and controlling the stream of
the whole hospital as shown in FIG. 12, or by disposing the sub
module for managing the section as shown in FIG. 13. In either
system, the following operation can be realized.
[0134] First, the patient comes to the hospital. The patient is
registered by a receptionist, and an ID is issued. A past regular
outpatient treatment history is also checked. If there is a regular
outpatient treatment history, a link with a past patient's case
record, past image, past report, and the like is set. Here, the
stream is issued. Since any examination is not started, the
patient's basic information (such as name, ID, gender, and date of
birth) is inputted here. If data relating to the patient exists, it
can be transferred.
[0135] An examination plan can be confirmed in the stream list in
each examination section. In this case, the list is checked by each
examination section or each doctor in a filtering manner. Of
course, all the lists in the hospital or another linked hospital
can be checked. Since the stream is managed by a central server,
any apparatus connected to a LAN can be accessed. Another hospital
can be accessed via the Internet or a limited network such as a
WAN. At this time, since information relating to privacy, such as
the patient information and diagnostic result is handled, strict
security is required. In this case, an account is given to each
operator, and an access right by password is applied. The account
can access all resources. An access limitation is disposed for each
manager account, grouped by areas such as the hospital, ward, and
section; by job or rank classification such as doctor, engineer,
nurse, clerk, or individuals, and a structure for preventing
unnecessary access is devised, thus the patient information is
protected.
[0136] An order of examination can be managed by a stream list.
Therefore, a nurse checks the list, and introduces the patient to
the examination doctor in order. Here, the list can be interrupted,
or the order can be changed for an emergency patient. Of course,
only a person who possesses authority can perform such an
operation. The examination doctor refers to the past data (if any)
from the stream. After the examination, further necessary
examination, prescription of medication and injection, and the like
can be inputted into an electronic case record or the stream, and
indicated and recorded. The electronic case record can also be
taken into the stream, or linked to the stream.
[0137] Here, a CT examination will be described. The doctor sends
an order to the radiation section. For the stream, the content is
selected from the template, or manually inputted or modified, and
the order is issued. The content of the order is also automatically
or manually sent to the radiology information system (RIS).
[0138] A simple instruction, for example, for a standard head scan,
scan template in the CT apparatus, MPR or 3D preparation template,
template of a fine process such as filming and archiving, and
parameters used in the template can be instructed on the
stream.
[0139] In the radiation section, the examination schedule is
automatically or manually prepared in accordance with the
information from the RIS or the stream schedule in the whole
hospital, and executed.
[0140] The examinations scheduled using the CT apparatus are
displayed on a list, and they proceed according to the list.
[0141] First, since the patient basic information and examination
order information are already inputted in the stream in the
patient/examination information input process, the content is
checked, and the operator name or the prescription such as the
contrast medium is automatically or manually inputted as the
occasion demands. Since the input information is formed in the
template and held, a selection processing is simple.
[0142] Subsequently, for the scan, when the scan plan is already
selected in the requested section, the plan is confirmed. If there
are no plans, the plan is selected, and the parameters are set.
[0143] Moreover, with a complicated scan, such as an image
examination, abdomen image 3-phase scan, or a plurality of scans,
realizing means, such as planning of all the contents in the scan
plan, and combining of a plurality of scan processes are used.
[0144] Furthermore, a real-time CT fluoroscope, real-time 3D, MPR,
4D display, and the like can also be incorporated.
[0145] When the scan or the reconstruction ends, in accordance with
the patient, site, and case, image check is performed. Also in this
case, since a check method is preset in accordance with the scan
content and operator, the method is used as it is, or changed, and
the image is checked. Re-scan or reconstruction retry is performed
based on the result. When the check operation ends, the operation
is shifted to the next process by the "Next" button. As described
above, in the stream, from issuance of the stream to the end, the
flow of the stream can proceed in the order of processes in the
stream.
[0146] In the next image processing process, image filter
processing, MPR automatic preparation, and 3D automatic preparation
are performed. An image filter type, MPR preparation condition
(section angle, preparation position, preparation interval, image
thickness, number of frames, and the like), and 3D preparation
condition (rendering type such as volume rendering, MIP, X-ray
display), opaqueness, color, preparation angle, preparation
position, image thickness, number of frames, and the like) are
defined beforehand as the template or a protocol, and held in the
stream, or interactively selected by the operator in an
introduction stage of the image processing process. Alternatively,
the template or the protocol is automatically selected based on the
patient/examination information already held in the stream.
Alternatively, the information and image content are checked and
automatically or manually adjusted, and the image is prepared.
Here, instead of preparing the image, the preparation condition is
only groped. In groping the preparation condition, for example, an
operator 1 adjusts the image processing condition to a certain
degree in the CT apparatus and workstation. Thereafter, an operator
2 can display or output the image on the same or another apparatus
according to the conditions chosen by the operator 1. Here, in
general, the operator 1 is a radiation section engineer, and the
operator 2 is a radiation section doctor in many cases. Since the
MPR or 3D image preparation sometimes includes a diagnostic action,
the image is basically prepared by the doctor. However, the whole
or a part of the image is sometimes prepared by the engineer for
reasons such as time and operability. To solve the problem, in the
present invention, the engineer uses the template or the protocol
prepared or approved by the doctor to prepare the image.
Alternatively, the engineer sets approximate preparation conditions
then the doctor makes fine adjustments. This can be performed in a
seamless manner in the same or another apparatus.
[0147] In this case, the prepared image or preparation condition
can also be linked with the filming process, archiving process, and
image transfer process.
[0148] As described above, in the stream, each ended process is
automatically or manually shifted to the next process. Moreover,
the process may automatically be started and executed by the preset
template or protocol, or the operator can perform an interactive
operation such as giving of an instruction each time the process
starts.
[0149] As in image processing, the next filming process is
automatically or manually executed in accordance with the template
or the protocol defined in the stream or defined beforehand.
[0150] For example, the number of films, frame layout, frame size,
luminance, and contrast are defined in accordance with the patient
type, site, case, and the like, as required by the image reader
doctor and requested section doctor.
[0151] These are automatically or manually set in accordance with
the examination type and order, when the stream is prepared.
[0152] This also applies to the archiving and transfer processes.
The number of images, image selection, image storage, image
transfer address, and the like are also defined, and can be changed
later.
[0153] Moreover, for a process requiring much time, such as the
filming, archiving, and image transfer process, after the
instruction is automatically or manually given, background
processing can be performed.
[0154] Background processing has a processing mode such that the
processing is simply performed in parallel with the foreground
processing, with a reduced degree of priority as compared with the
foreground processing, or only in response to the instruction given
by the operator. Moreover, a detailed or schematic state of the
background processing can be displayed.
[0155] The processes from input of the patient information to the
image transfer in the CT apparatus has been described above.
Depending upon the stream, there is also a case in which only some
of the processes are performed or another process is
incorporated.
[0156] After the image is outputted from the CT apparatus, the
image is read via a film or a monitor. An example in which PACS is
introduced, the image is read on the monitor in the workstation for
reading the image, and a report is prepared will be described.
[0157] In the workstation for reading the image, the image reader
doctor displays the stream list only of the data whose image is to
be read. Here, as in the CT apparatus, the stream list is displayed
as a schedule. Here, when the image reading process is selected,
the prepared image is displayed, or the image is displayed in
accordance with a previously-prepared condition. The image can thus
be browsed.
[0158] Display conditions include luminance, contrast, filter
condition, frame layout, modality, layout by grouping such as
series, operation screen, operation form, and the like. Therefore,
the image reader doctor can automatically or manually select a
desired content and condition in accordance with the patient type,
examination, site, and case.
[0159] Moreover, in the image processing process, the image can be
displayed in accordance with the condition prepared by another
operator. The image can promptly be seen under appropriate display
and preparation conditions, and can further be adjusted.
[0160] Furthermore, the filming, archiving, and transfer process is
performed. Here, the process is performed with respect to a key
image extracted during the image reading. Of course, the process
can also be performed with respect to all the images as the
occasion demands.
[0161] Here, the key image is easy for the patient to read, and is
transferred as a basis of diagnosis mainly to the requested
section.
[0162] The report preparation is included in the image reading
process, or performed in an independent process. In the image
reading and report preparing process, information such as past
information, past image, past report, and past case record can
automatically or manually be obtained.
[0163] A report is manually written, typed, or dictated by the
image reader doctor, and is finally sent to the requested section
doctor.
[0164] The requested section doctor refers to the stream list and
notes the progress of the examination. For example, only
information of the performed examination requested by the doctor
can be displayed. The examination may be requested to a plurality
of sections. Usually, the diagnosis is not performed until all
examination results necessary for the diagnosis are obtained.
However, in an emergency case or another case, only the result of
the performed examination is checked. Alternatively, the list can
be seen by changing a list display condition.
[0165] When the stream or the diagnostic process is selected, the
examination result is displayed. As in the image reading process,
the desired condition can be automatically or manually
selected.
[0166] (sub Stream)
[0167] A sub stream shown in FIG. 13 will be described. For
example, in FIG. 12, the process is executed by a plurality of
sections such as the radiation section and sample examination
section in one stream. On the other hand, in FIG. 13, the stream
can be managed independently by the radiation section, and only a
portion executed by the radiation section upon request is managed
by the stream control module of the radiation section in the main
stream of the whole hospital. In the stream (work flow) of the
whole hospital, a complicated branched or parallel operation is
expected to be generated. FIG. 13 shows another example for
realizing a complicated stream.
[0168] FIG. 14 shows an example in which the sub stream is
controlled in the CT apparatus in the radiation section and the
process is controlled in the workstation for reading the image. In
the CT apparatus, the information is managed in accordance with the
sub stream in the screen shown in FIG. 14.
Example 2
[0169] An embodiment will next be described in which the present
system is introduced into a hospital, and a series of medical works
are performed with the predetermined medical action performed for
the outpatient in accordance with the stream.
[0170] FIG. 15 schematically shows a flow of the outpatient and
data in the hospital, when the present medical work management
system is applied to the hospital and the medical work is performed
in accordance with the stream. A concrete implementation content
shown in FIG. 15 will be described hereinafter.
[0171] First, when the patient comes to the receptionist of the
hospital, the stream is prepared. In this stage, only the patient
input process is performed, and the subsequent flow is in a blank
state. The operation can be performed by any terminal in which the
stream server can be referred to. Basically, the HIS terminal is
used.
[0172] For example, with a new patient, basic information,
information of a health insurance card and the like, is input. On
the other hand, if a returning patient is present, past examination
data is referred to, and further a changed item is inputted.
[0173] Examination order and time scheduling is performed for each
examination section based on the input content. In this stage, a
default stream template in each examination section is applied for
the subsequent stream. Basically, the scheduling is performed in
the inputted order. However, in an emergency, etc., the schedule
can manually be changed. When the stream is prepared in this
manner, the subsequent medical work is executed in accordance with
the schedule along the stream. The patient is then called to the
examination room.
[0174] Subsequently, the nurse who called the patient uses a
terminal close at hand to display the patient's schedule only of
the examination section responsible, and performs reception. If
necessary, the patient's information and past cast history can be
selected from the stream and browsed.
[0175] Subsequently, the doctor executes an examination. When the
examination ends, the doctor may order further examination or
treatment on the stream. In this case, the stream template suitable
for each examination order is selected and applied. As described
above, the stream template is constituted by defining the whole
works performed in a medical institution, or by defining a part of
the stream after a certain process. For example, when a CT
examination is ordered to the radiation section, the portion to be
imaged, and the template suitable for the case are selected. If
necessary, detailed instructions, such as parameters, can be
inputted in the stream.
[0176] In an examination result waiting stage, the nurse can
confirm the stage with the stream list, and introduces the next
patient to the examination room. Moreover, the information is also
displayed in a display board in a patient waiting room.
[0177] Subsequently, the patient goes to a sample examination
section to receive blood and urine examinations. The situation of
the patient who receives the examination can also be seen in the
stream list in the examination division. An examination patient
list having an ordered or reserved order can be seen with the
stream list, and a content of examination to be performed is also
displayed. When the examination ends, the end is inputted in the
stream list.
[0178] Additionally, the examination section doctor can confirm the
progress situation of the examination by glancing at the stream
display as the occasion demands.
[0179] Subsequently, when the sample examination ends, the patient
next goes to the radiation section for image taking. It can be
judged with the stream in the CT examination room whether the
patient to receive the CT examination has come to the waiting room
or not. Basically, examinations are performed according to
schedule. When the scheduled patient is late, or there is an
emergency, this can be confirmed on the stream, and the examination
order can be arbitrarily changed.
[0180] In actuality, a number of people are working in the
examination room. Each of them can view the examination schedule
with a terminal close at hand. After the examination is performed
according to the stream, and completed, the display of the examined
items changes. It can thus be confirmed that the examination has
ended.
[0181] In image diagnostic processes such as image taking, image
processing, image output, image reading, and report are performed.
For these processes, the stream is prepared in accordance with
process contents, and the processes are executed along the stream.
In this case, a plurality of apparatuses such as an image pick-up
apparatus, image processing apparatus, image reading apparatus, and
report preparation apparatus are sometimes used.
[0182] The examination section doctor views the stream display if
necessary, and can confirm the progress of the examination.
[0183] In this case, for example, the examination section doctor in
another room can confirm with the stream whether all the ordered
examinations have ended or not. An examined patient list can be
displayed in the stream list, and the examination section doctor
gives diagnosis based on the examination result in order of time of
end or reserved time.
[0184] Additionally, if necessary, the examination result or image
is explained to the patient. In this case, LIS or PACS is referred
to by the operation on the stream, and the result or image can be
immediately displayed. If necessary, an order is issued to a
treatment room or a pharmacy division.
[0185] Moreover, examples of the content handled on the stream
include not only the processing on the apparatus including a
computer, such as image pick-up and image processing, but also
treatments not using a computer apparatus, such as blood
examination and injections. In the treatments, the terminal with
the stream displayed therein (exclusive-use terminal, information
processing terminal such as HIS, and the like) is used to
artificially perform schedule management, browsing of process
content, and input of process results.
[0186] For example, after an examination in the examination
section, or an additionally required examination, a request for a
concrete treatment content is artificially inputted and
incorporated in the stream. A person in charge of the treatment
confirms the situation in a treatment room, and executes the
treatment (such as injection and drip transfusion) in accordance
with this content. When the treatment ends, for example, the person
in charge inputs treatment completion or "Next" in the examination
stream via the terminal. In response to this input, the management
on the stream advances, for example, to the next pharmacy
process.
[0187] Additionally, a similar content is naturally not only
reflected in the stream in the treatment room but also in other
processes of other sections, such as a pharmacy section and
accounting section. Moreover, the information may be inputted into
the stream control module from the terminal in each section in any
mode. For example, the information may be inputted via a keyboard,
mouse, and the like disposed at the terminal, or by reading an ID
card, bar code, and the like for each patient. Particularly,
patient identification by the ID card is effective in that the
patient is prevented from being mistaken, and the task of data
input of patient/examination information into the apparatus can be
avoided. The identification may be used simply in identifying the
patient. Moreover, the input of the ID can also be used as an input
for starting the treatment on the patient.
[0188] Finally, accounting, medicine receiving, and next
reservation will be described. The patient makes payment and
receives medicine. This information is also inputted in the stream.
If necessary, a reservation for the next examination is made. The
default stream is prepared for the next examination. In this stage,
the stream generated during reception turns to an end status.
Example 3
[0189] Another embodiment will next be described in which the
medical work relating to a plurality of patients is executed in
parallel (see FIGS. 4, 5) in an example of CT examination.
[0190] In the CT examination, an ability of processing such as the
reconstruction, image processing, and filming cannot catch up with
an enhanced property of a latest scanner, and check and adjustment
operations have to be performed with respect to many images.
Therefore, a time for the process performing on the console tends
to increase.
[0191] When a series of processes of CT examinations are performed
in series, the examination throughput is reduced. To solve the
problem, a plurality of examinations are sometimes performed in
parallel.
[0192] For example, when a certain sample (patient) comes into/out
of the examination room, and scan preparation is performed, the
image processing or filming of the scanned sample (patient)
previously is performed beforehand. In this case, when the scan and
filming processing is manually performed in parallel, either one or
both of the respective operation/display screens can be displayed
during the processing. When the screens are displayed one by one,
the scan or the filming can be selected with the stream in the
stream list. When both screens are displayed, the stream or the
operation/display screen can be selected. In this case, the scan
screen can be distinguished from the filming screen by color, icon,
ID display, and the like.
[0193] Moreover, when the filming operation is not ended within the
time allotted, a number of filming operations can sometimes pile
up. This can be confirmed with the stream list, when the state of
the filming process of the left stream is unfinished.
[0194] Furthermore, in a CT apparatus, a plurality of consoles and
WSs are sometimes used with respect to one scanner for reasons such
as enhancement of the throughput. In this case, the
patient/examination information input, scan, reconstruction, and
image check are performed at console 1, and the image processing,
filming, archiving, and image transfer are performed at console 2.
In this manner, the processes are allotted to the respective
consoles.
[0195] In this case, an exclusive control can be achieved so that
the process or the stream being performed in one apparatus cannot
be selected in another apparatus. Moreover, the apparatus,
operator, and progress of the processing can be checked.
Embodiment 4
[0196] An embodiment will next be described in which the present
medical work management system is applied to a plurality of
hospitals, and a composite medical work is executed along the
stream over the plurality of hospitals.
[0197] FIG. 16 shows an example in which the present medical work
management system is applied to the plurality of hospitals. In the
system, template management and stream management are performed
among the hospitals. In the present system, a global stream control
module is disposed in one hospital, and local stream control
modules are disposed in other hospitals.
[0198] When the template management is shared among the plurality
of hospitals, the respective apparatuses on the network installed
in the respective hospitals are read from the global stream control
module, or registered. Moreover, in order to solve problems in
network connection, and backup the global stream control module,
the information is periodically copied also into the local stream
control module. In this manner, the local stream control module has
functions for: securing a local performance; backing up the global
stream control module if a problem occurs in the connection; and
backing up and holding the data of the global stream control
module.
[0199] When the stream is passed through the hospitals, the global
stream control module controls and manages the stream extending
over the plurality of hospitals.
[0200] Additionally, the system shown in FIG. 16 indicates a
relation of the plurality of hospitals, but the constitution of the
system can also be applied to a relation among a plurality of
sections or wards in one hospital. That is, a similar constitution
can also realize a system in which the global stream control module
is disposed, for example, in the HIS section and the local stream
control modules are disposed in the respective sections.
[0201] According to the aforementioned constitutions, the following
effects can be obtained.
[0202] First, the flow of patients and examinations can be operated
as the stream in the whole system. Therefore, a unified operability
can be provided in various apparatuses.
[0203] Secondly, since the stream can be developed in the whole
network system, a work flow extending over the plurality of
apparatuses, and schedule can easily be managed and indicated.
[0204] Thirdly, when the stream is displayed in the list, a lateral
flow of examinations, or a "work flow", and scheduling of a
plurality of patients and examinations as a longitudinal flow can
collectively be controlled, displayed, and operated. Since the
longitudinal and lateral flows are generally managed, reduction of
mistakes, enhancement of the throughput, and a decrease in
unnecessary operations can be expected.
[0205] Fourthly, when the stream is applied to a plurality of
apparatuses, the patient information input operation may only need
to be performed once, in many cases. This can be expected to reduce
unnecessary operations, and mistakes.
[0206] Fifthly, when the stream and process are directly selected,
the desired processing can be performed. Therefore, the reduction
of operation time and errors, and simplification of obtaining of
the operation method can be expected.
[0207] The present invention has been described above based on the
embodiments, but any person skilled in the art can develop various
changes and modifications within the scope and spirit of the
present invention. It is understood that these changes and
modifications fall within the scope of the present invention, and
the present invention can be variously modified without departing
from the scope.
[0208] For example, the present invention can variously be modified
without departing from the scope as follows.
[0209] The above-mentioned system or the business management
approach can also be realized based on the storage medium which
records the program for the system concerned etc., and from which
computer readout is possible, or the transmission medium which
transmits the program concerned. In addition, if the storage medium
from which computer readout is possible points out all the media
that can memorize the program which performs the above-mentioned
means to the computer, the form has for example, the volatile
medium, the non-volatility medium (the optical disk, the magnetic
disk, magnetic optical disk), the transmission medium (the coaxial
cable, the copper wire, optical fiber), etc. and the same function
is achieved, it will not be the meaning limited to these media.
Moreover, the transmission medium may spread the acoustic wave or
the light wave which is generated between the electric waves and
performs infrared data communication.
[0210] As described above, there can be realized a medical work
management system able to quickly provide information by which the
flow of the medical works can appropriately and easily be grasped,
in a global system easily operable by a user, for a plurality of
apparatuses.
[0211] Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur
to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its
broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and
representative embodiments shown and described herein. Accordingly,
various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit
or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the
appended claims and their equivalents.
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